Momentum Builds Behind the Savings & Investment Union and EU Capital Market Integration

Momentum is growing across Europe – and here in Ireland – behind the Savings & Investment Union (SIU) and the drive for a more integrated EU capital market. Recent industry discussions underscore a shared commitment to modernising, simplifying, and scaling capital markets to deliver better outcomes for citizens.

Key engagements, including discussions with the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), insights from the Central Bank of Ireland Financial System Conference, and the recent Savings & Investment Accounts event hosted by the Institute of International and European Affairs, Brown Brothers Harriman, and Vanguard, have highlighted common themes:

• EU savers have significant untapped potential to invest in more productive assets.

• Retail participation in capital markets must grow, supported by accessible savings and investment options.

• Modern, future-ready market infrastructure is essential.

• Strong collaboration between policymakers, regulators, and industry is critical to achieving the SIU vision.

Alongside these priorities, strengthening financial literacy is fundamental to ensuring citizens can fully benefit from a more integrated European capital market. Through Irish Funds’ own financial literacy initiatives in schools, sponsored by Deloitte, we see first hand how early education empowers future savers and investors – laying a practical foundation for the SIU’s long-term success.

As the representative body for Ireland’s funds and asset management industry, Irish Funds remains committed to advancing this agenda. Ireland’s role as a global asset management centre positions the country to provide expertise, advocate for effective policy, and help ensure the SIU delivers tangible benefits to European citizens.

Irish Funds looks forward to ongoing collaboration with policymakers, regulators, and industry partners as momentum behind the SIU continues to accelerate.